Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has been appointed the Super Eagles main assistant captain ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Galatasaray striker will deputise for newly appointed captain Wilfred Ndidi and has also been named the team’s first choice penalty taker.
The changes follow the international retirement of former captain William Troost Ekong, who previously wore the armband and took penalties for Nigeria.
Ndidi was officially confirmed as Super Eagles captain on December 19, following the retirements of Ahmed Musa and Troost Ekong from international football.
He had served as stand in captain on several occasions before being handed the role permanently.
Speaking on his appointment, Ndidi said, “It’s a huge responsibility, and with the help of the players, everything will go smoothly.”
He added, “I have had conversations with the players, trying to make them understand the reason why we are here. We also need support from the staff and to have conversations about what’s ahead. It is very important that everyone is on the same page.”
Ndidi also paid tribute to Troost Ekong, saying, “He is a great leader, he speaks for the team, he stands for the team. I admire him a lot. How outspoken he is. He is one person everyone looks up to. He is an amazing guy. I have learnt a lot from him. We spoke a couple of weeks ago, still chipped in some advice, i feel he is still part of the team. He is going to be missed.”
Aside from Ndidi and Osimhen, other senior figures in the squad include Alex Iwobi and Moses Simon, both of whom have been part of the national team for close to a decade.
Iwobi is currently the most capped player in the squad, with Simon next.
Meanwhile, Super Eagles first choice goalkeeper Stanley Nwabali has also drawn attention ahead of Nigeria’s opening AFCON match against Tanzania.
The Chippa United goalkeeper recently unveiled a blonde hairstyle, which has sparked conversations as the tournament approaches.
The 29 year old has been a regular for Nigeria since AFCON 2023, where he kept four clean sheets.
The former Enyimba and Katsina United goalkeeper is expected to feature when the Super Eagles face Tanzania at 6.30 pm on Tuesday evening.
